Islam Makhachev Open to Boxing Conor McGregor

Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC welterweight champion, has expressed his curiosity about a possible boxing bout against Conor McGregor. The 33-year-old fighter, currently ranked No. 1 in the world, is fascinated by the prospect of facing McGregor, who is considered one of the biggest stars in the sport. However, McGregor has recently suffered multiple losses and is unlikely to challenge for the UFC welterweight title anytime soon.

In contrast, a boxing match is a different scenario, and Makhachev has openly admitted that he would be interested in taking McGregor into the squared circle. Speaking to Ushatayka, Makhachev revealed that he believes he could outperform McGregor in a boxing match, regardless of the financial incentive. "Yes, maybe he’s dangerous in the first round, but after that, I don’t think he has any chance," Makhachev stated.

"Honestly, regardless of the purse, I’d box (Conor)." While the idea of Makhachev facing McGregor in MMA is unlikely, given the champion's dominance in grappling, the prospect of the two fighters meeting in boxing is intriguing. Dana White, UFC president, has hinted that such a matchup could be promoted in Zuffa Boxing, creating a clash between the best MMA fighter in the world and the biggest MMA superstar in the sport.

In a boxing match, McGregor would have a more straightforward challenge, focusing solely on landing punches on Makhachev's chin, rather than dealing with his elite grappling skills. Makhachev is not primarily a striker but possesses solid striking abilities, which could enable him to hold his own against McGregor if they were to meet in a boxing match.

However, McGregor's pure power could give him a puncher's chance to win the fight. Despite the unlikelihood of the bout happening, the possibility of Islam Makhachev open to boxing Conor McGregor remains an entertaining thought for MMA fans worldwide.